This module introduces the student to a wide range of physical, chemical and biological methods commonly used in water analysis in the context of the regulatory framework.

1. Describe the theoretical principles of water quality analysis.
2. Perform a range of analytical techniques on various water samples and comment on the accuracy, precisionand limitations of the data generated.
3. Interpret scientific data using knowledge of water quality parameters and relevant water legislation, where appropriate.
4. Generate and record scientific data in a laboratory both individually and in teams.
5. Write a scientific report.

This module provides students with a theoretical and practical introduction to Microorganisms. It examines the influence of the bacteria, fungi and viruses on our lives and on the environment around us and gives the opportunity to grow, manipulate and examine these organisms microscopically.

1. Carry out basic microbiological laboratory procedures while working safely and aseptically

2. Manipulate laboratory results , produce graphs and tables and answer short questions to demonstrate a detailed understanding of practicals preformed.

3. Demonstrate a knowledge of the place of microorganisms in the living world and be able to describe the nature of both prokaryotic and eukaryotic microorganisms and viruses.

4. Describe the fine cellular structures and functions of microorganisms.

5. Explain the nutritional and environmental factors influencing growth and reproduction.

This subject provides an introduction to the environmental issues that are easily sensed by people and which can cause annoyance or, in more extreme cases, nuisance. The learner should be able to identify the causes, impacts and effects of each and to outline strategies for the reduction of any impacts. Complaints handling is also addressed.

1. Explain the terms associated with nuisance issues and describe, where relevant, the terms, conventions and units of measure appropriate to each nuisance issue
2. Identify the main causes of each of the nuisance issues.
3. Identify and explain the significant adverse effects and impacts of these nuisance issues.

4. Outline strategies that can be used to reduce the impact or negative effects of each of the nuisance issues.
5. Conduct group-basedpractical investigative work in relation to a nuisance issue and communicate information regarding such investigation(s).

The module will impart the basis of meteorology and climatology, addressing the structure and function of the atmosphere and oceans in balancing earths' energy budget. In combination, the student will gain an appreciation of the human impact on these planetary systems, with measures to mitigate the long-term effects in a range of sectors explored.

1. Describe and illustrate a range of basic fundamental scientific concepts, laws and principles which govern and give meaning to the role and behaviour of the atmosphere, weather and climate.
2. Explain the earths global energy budget, theinfluence of solar radiation and p lanetary-scale motions in the atmosphere and ocean.
3. Explain the key natural and human drivers of climate change.
4. Review the likely impacts and consequences of contemporary climate change.
5. Identify sector level strategies to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases and adapt to climate change.

This module introduces the fundamental concepts of aquatic ecology through developing an understanding of the abiotic and biotic interactions of aquatic ecosystems. It includes examples from a range of aquatic ecosystems including estuarine and transitional coastal waters, rivers, lakes and wetlands. The abiotic and biotic components of various aquatic ecosystems are described and reinforced by practical elements covering the sampling and classification of aquatic habitats and their communities.

1. Describe the fundamental ecological concepts of population demographics, regulation of population size, community structure, community interactions and community development of estuary, river, lake and wetland ecosystems
2. Demonstrate an understanding of the biotic and abiotic components of a range of aquatic ecosystems
3. Recognise the dynamics of aquatic ecosystems and explain energy flow and nutrient cycling in a range of aquatic ecosystems
4. Identify and classify aquatic habitats using both Irish and international habitat classification systems
5. Collect and interpret sample data from selected aquatic habitats

This module provides good laboratory practice skills and quality control systems required by an environmental scientist undertaking environmental sampling and analysis.

1. Follow documented scientific procedures and approved validation and quality assurance procedures to accurately gather, record, processand communicate scientific information
2. Respond to problems and opportunities that are likely to be encountered by a technician, working in a structured and managed environment
3. Choose and apply an appropiate analytical method that is \”fit for purpose\” for specified environmental samples.
4. Demonstrate an ability to work competently, confidently and safely in a laboratory setting.
5. Develop standard operating procedures for environmental sampling, sample storage and analysis.
6. Demonstrate knowledge of the terminology, nomenclature, and/or classification systems appropriate to quality control

The theoretical principles and environmental understanding and applications of instrumentation in general and in particular chromatography, spectroscopy and electroanalytical techniques are introduced.

1. Describe and summarise the basic concepts, definitions and principles underlying analytical /scientific instrumentation.
2. Describe the theoretical principles and operation of a range of analytical techniques and instruments and evaluate their role in environmental analysis.
3. Define instrumental performance characteristics and evaluate the selections of instruments based on these characteristics.
4. Calibrate and use a range of analytical instruments.
5. Interpret results, perform calculations, draw calibration curves, determine analyte concentration in a sample and communicate in a scientific report.

This module introduces the fundamental concepts of terrestrial ecology through developing an understanding of the abiotic and biotic interactions of terrestrial ecosystems. It includes examples from a range of terrestrial ecosystems including coastal, peatlands and heathlands, grasslands and forests. Students are introduced to the terrestrial environment and life in terrestrial ecosystems. The abiotic and biotic components of various terrestrial ecosystems are described and reinforced by practical elements covering the sampling and classification of terrestrial habitats and their communities.

1. Describe the fundamental ecological concepts of populations, communities and environment interactions of a range of twerrestrial ecosystems (peatland, grassland, forest and coastal)
2. Demonstrate an understanding of the biotic and abiotic components of a range ofterrestrial ecosystems
3. Recognise the dynamics ofterrestrial ecosystems and explain energy flow and nutrient cycling in a range ofterrestrial ecosystems
4. Identify and classifyterrestrial habitats using both Irish and international habitat classification systems
5. Collect and interpret sample data from selectedterrestrial habitats

This module introduces basic engineering principles, with a focus on the measurement of flows in the natural and built environment (hydraulics) and the principles behind the use of various methods for the conveyance of water and wastewater. The module also introduces the use of maps and scaled drawings, and basic surveying techniques (levelling).

1. Carry out a range of mathematical calculations to solve practical environmental engineering and environmental science problems
2. Calculate flow rates, velocities and depths for a range of flow measurement devices used in water and wastewater treatment plants
3. Use paper and electronic maps and drawings to identify and locate features and transfer a range of site data to maps and scaled drawings
4. Carry out small land survey to record locations and levels using level, staff and tape.

The aim of this module is to introduce students to a variety of laboratory methods used to assess the microbiological status of environmental samples and to teach them the importance of control and containment in environmental microbiology.

1. Applya range of laboratory skills to perform routine analysis using microbiological techniques

2. Count microorganisms in and on environmental samplesusing a range of laboratory procedures

3. Explain the common methods used to control environmental microorganisms

4. Demonstrate a knowledge ofthe importance of containment of potentially pathogenic environmentalmicroorganisms

5. Outline the risks from air borne biohazards and relate the methods for the detection and control of air microflora

This module provides an introduction to tabular and spatial data management and analysis. Students are introduced to Cloud Based Geographic Information Systems (GIS On-Line & GISPro). A range of data compilation and data interrogation processes are introduced in order to provide the student with competence in a range of tabular and spatial data manipulation and presentation tasks.

1. Use Cloud based software(GIS On-Line &GISPro) to compile data and interrogate for final Map production

2. Create Point, Line and PoygonFeatureClasses to include editingassociated attributes

3. Work with GIS functions to assign symbology, manage labels and produce customised map documents.
4. Query and find features using logical expressions and spatial relationships.
5. Create finished Maps for On-Line display and embedding within Academic Documents

This module emphasises the importance of soil ecosystem services for the production of food and environmental protection, in addition to their value to society. Students are taught fundamental knowledge and practical skills on key physical, chemical and biological soil properties, in addition to their interactions, in agricultural, forest and urban soils. Factors influencing soil formation and the great soil groups are addressed. The module introduces students to the main global threats to soil health and their consequences.

1. Explainkey physical, chemical and biological soil properties.

2. Outline key characteristics ofgreat soil groupsand the influence of the main factors of their formation.

3. Demonstrate knowledge of major global threats to soil health (including their cause, nature and consequences)

4. Interpret fieldand laboratory data relating to key soil characteristics with a critical understanding of the context.

5. Outline the concept of soil ecosystem services and its importance to food production, the environment and society.

The aims of this module are to enable the student to characterise air pollutants, explain the chemistry of air pollutants and evaluate their significance from and environmental and health perspective.

1. Identify the major atmospheric and indoor air pollutants of a chemical nature from selected anthropogenic activities and explain the effects and impacts of these pollutants.
2. Utilise knowledge of essential facts, major concepts and underlying principles in relation to air pollution.
3. Describe and evaluate air pollution control strategies.
4. Take direction, accept constructive criticism to enhance and direct self learning within a structured team environment.
5. Select suitable methodologies for the monitoring of air quality and complete associated calculations for a range of chemical sampling methods and evaluate air sampling data.
6. Undertake monitoring of air quality and undertake associated calculations for a range of chemical air contaminants.
7. Evaluate air sampling data and determine the relevance, significance and limitations of the data collected.

This module aims to provide the learner with knowledge on water-borne bacterial, protozoan and viral pathogens, their dispersion in the environment and their impact on public health. Additionally, the learner will learn the microbiological methods used to detect and enumerate faecal indicator bacteria in different types of sample.

1. Explain a variety of laboratory methods for microbiological analysis: water, shellfish and soil/compost analysis

2. Explain the characteristics of faecal indicator bacteria

3. Summarise the nature of water borne microbial pathogens, including sources, pathways and impact

4. Outline the factors affecting the fate of water borne pathogens

5. Explain the microbiology of activated sludge

This module introduces waste management at both national, regional and organisational level. It covers waste classification and the concept of the waste management hierarchy and its application in various sectoral areas. Waste prevention/minimisation, re-use, recovery and disposal options and technologies are addressed and their environmental impacts assessed. The regulatory framework is also presented.

1. Describe the various waste classification systems in common use.

2. Describe and evaluate the various mechanisms that are used to reduce the quantity and environmental impact of specified waste streams
3. Identify the various legislative requirements for producers and holders of waste and for waste hauliers.

4. Explain the key policies/legislation andmechanisms forthe management of selected priority waste streams (e.g. biodegradable municipal waste, packaging, ELVsetc.

5. Describe the principle of operation andmonitoring requirementsin a selected large scale waste facilities.

This teaching unit will introduce students to the principles underpinning environmental toxicology and to some practical components of common toxicology bioassays.

1. Describing the principles of environmental toxicology
2. Outlining the major toxicants of environmental interest
3. Describing the use of bioassays in environmental toxicology
4. Performing and reporting on toxicological laboratory experiments

This module focuses on identifying and assessing a range of environmental impacts (e.g. on humans, air, water, soil, ecology, landscape etc.) associated with a range of economic sectors. The module also includes the planning and carrying out a detailed inspection of a site, organisation or activity; the legal and technical requirements in relation to the storage, containment (bunding) and proper management of hazardous materials; the assessment of the likely regulatory and environmental impacts associated with emergency situations;and the preparation of nutrient management plans (NMPs) for the sustainable recycling of waste sludges (biosolids) to land.

1. Identify and assess the most significant environmental impacts (e.g. on humans, air, water, soil, ecology, landscape etc.) associated with a range of economic sectors.

2. Explain what is involved in the planning and execution of a site inspection to assess for compliance with environmental legislation and/or best international practice.

3. Interpret and apply the legal and technical requirements for the storage, containment (bunding) and proper management of hazardous materials such as oil and chemicals.

4. Determine the likely regulatory requirements and environmental impacts associated with a range of emergency situations.

5. Explain what is involved in the preparation of a nutrient management plan for the sustainable recycling of waste sludges (biosolids) to land.

This teaching unit will introduce students to the principles underpinning molecular biology and to some practical components of common biomolecular methodologies which apply to environmental and archaeological sciences.

1. Explaining the basic principles underpinning biomolecular analyses
2. Describing the principles of common molecular techniques
3. Demonstrating knowledge of specific environmental or archaeological molecular biology based case studies
4. Performing and reporting on molecular biology laboratory experiments

This module describes the nature, sources and composition of contaminants in water, municipal and industrial wastewater as well as end products arising from treatment. The module explains how to monitor and quantify pollutants and monitor the efficiency of technologies employed to ensure compliance with legislation. The module also explains the function and basic design parameters of the most commonly used processes for the treatment of water, wastewater and residuals (sludge).

1. Distinguish betweenpreliminary, primary, secondary and tertiary wastewater treatment processes and assess the capacity of existing treatment processes based on established design criteria.

2. Illustrate the functionof the main treatment processes in typical water treatment plants and assess the capacity of existing processes based on established design criteria.

3. Discuss the relative advantages and disadvantages of a range ofwater and wastewater sludge treatment processes and how these residues should be managed.

4. Assess the appropriateness of a range of intensive and extensive wastewater treatment processes appropriate for on-site treatment of wastewater from domestic and small commercial and industrial operations.

5. Discuss the use of the monitoring of critical control points and the application of a management system approach in the operation and management of water and wastewater treatment facilities.

This practical Module covers methods used for analysis and monitoring chemical, physical and microbiological parameters of wastewater treatment processes. Students work in teams and each team is responsible for the maintenance, operation and monitoring the efficiency of treatment of a laboratory-scale wastewater treatment system based on the activated sludge process.

1. Interpret the operation of a secondary wastewater treatment process and be able to list the various parts of the treatment plant and their functions

2. Demonstrate the ability to work independently and in groups, safely, to carry out a range of analytical laboratory procedures related to the wastewater treatment process to include microbiological and chemical/physical methods as appropriate.

3. Solve calculations regarding the design and operation of a wastewater treatment plant

4. Compile, summarise and present overall results on a data base and in a presentation

5. Compare compliance with the relevant regulations covering wastewater treatment.

This module describes the use of bioindicators and bioindices in ecological monitoring. This module provides an introduction to ecological monitoring in a variety of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. It describes the use of bioindicators and bioindices as an essential component of environmental monitoring and in the assessment of environment quality. The module also focuses on the legislative ecological monitoring requirements to assess progress in achieving objectives of a wide range of EU legislation, in particular the EU Water Framework, Birds and Habitats Directives. Biodiversity assessment using a range of biodiversity measures and indices will be taught. Practical work will involve visits to a range of sites to sample, identify and apply a selection of monitoring methods.

1. Describe a range of bioindicators and bioindices that can be used in the monitoring of air, water and terrestrial environmental quality
2. Demonstrate an ability to critically evaluate ecological monitoring systems currently used for condition assessment for various EU Directives
3. Critique the use of ecological monitoring versus physical and chemical monitoring in assessment of environmental quality

4. Evaluate the ecological condition of freshwater and terrestrial ecosystems using appropriate bioindicators and bioindices
5. Describe biodiversity and its assessment using a range of indices (e.g. similarity, diversity and rarity)

This module will give students a foundation in occupational safety and health and highlight the links between environmental issues and health and safety in the workplace.

1. Examine the links between environmental issuesandoccupational safety andhealthissues in the workplace.

2. Identify a variety of hazards in the workplace and apply appropriate control measures.

3. Outline the parameters used for occupational safetyand healthmonitoring.

4. Identify and analyse Irish and EU occupational safety and health legislation.

5. Communicate the need for effective management of health and safety issues in the workplace.

This module is designed to introduce the learner to the subject of statistics as applied to topics in environmental science. The module will cover basic descriptive statistics, and data presentation before moving on to cover inferential statistics and methods of statistical testing which have particular relevance to environmental science.

1. Demonstrate their knowledge of core statistics skills such as data presentation and use of summary statistics.
2. Apply their knowledge of descriptive statistics to summarise a dataset in an appropriate and meaningful way.
3. Use inferential statistics to make robust judgements about a population of interest by analysis of sample data from the population.
4. Select, apply, and analyse the results of a statistical test relevant to a particular dataset and bearing in mind the nature of the data and the strengths and weaknesses of different tests.

This subject introduces the learner to the basic framework of the Irish law and legislature and the role of the European Union in the formation of national environmental legislation. The main environmental legal instruments and relevant institutional structures are addressed, as are the main Irish enforcement agencies and NGOs.

The learner will be able to identify, explain and critique environmental regulations in an Irish context.

1. Demonstrate an applied knowledge and understanding of salient areas of environmental legislation, including the major obligations/provisions of the main Irish environmental Acts and S.I.’s
2. Critically review relevant legal instruments aimed at addressing current environmental issues.
3. Explain the legal and institutional framework designed for environmental protection in Ireland.
4. Communicate information regarding environmental legislation in layman’s terms.

This module is designed to develop process, presentation and project management skills to prepare learners to complete their research projects. The module explores literature gathering and sourcing, assessing information, scientific report writing, research project planning and management. Together with their research project it provides students with a taster for scientific research and develops a more in depth understanding of how science works (the scientific method) and how information is gathered and evaluated.

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the scientific research process (from formulating questions and hypothesis to quantitative and qualitative research methods to research reporting and the peer review process)
2. Assess and critically evaluate various literature sources and conduct a literature review
3. Develop a research proposal
4. Report and present research findings clearly and precisely

This subject introduces the learner to current environmental policy. The learner will be able to address issues associated with the implementation of environmental policy and will be able to identify, explain and critique environmental regulation, regulatory approaches and tools and other interventions and safeguards in an Irish context.

The main environmental legal instruments and relevant institutional structures are addressed as are the main Irish stakeholders in relation to policy and compliance.

The learner will be able to source, explain and critique environmental regulation in an Irish context and will perform tasks aimed at simulating the context of environmental legislation in the workplace.

1. Demonstrate an applied knowledge and understanding of salient areas of environmental legislation, including the major obligations/provisions of the main Irish environmental Acts and S.I.’s and relevant international legal documents.
2. Critically review relevantenvironmental legislative instruments and explain theextent to which the instrumentsaddresscurrent environmental issues.

3. Evaluate the legal and institutional framework designed for environmental protection in Ireland.
4. Explain why and how policy is developed and evaluate the factors that influencethe development and delivery of policy.

5. Discuss the main international, EU and Irish policies in relation to the environment and for one or more areas of environmental policy perform a critical evaluation of its effectiveness.

Data management processes, incorporating prior learning from Terrestrial based modules in Yr's 2 & 3, are developed in order to provide the student with competence in a range of DBMS and GIS tasks utilising both ESRI GIS On-Line & GISPro. World Imagery and Living Atlas web services (Satellite imagery) are incorporated to provide content from a range of sources. The role of GIS for managing Unmanned Aerial Systems (Drone Technology) is explored for scanning and 3D modelling and Story Map production. A range of Open Source GIS software resources, including IGIS, QGIS, CMaps, AziMap, utilising Microsoft.NET technology are reviewed.

1. Organise diverse spatial and temporal datasets into layers for surface analysis and distance measurement using GIS Pro & GIS ON-Line.

2. Utilise satellite imagery sourced from ESRI Living Atlas to generate 3D modelling and for Story Map production

3. Construct cluster, proximity, orientation cartographic displays to determine spatial relationships within anenvironmental context.
4. Represent and explore attribute data todetect trends and directional influences,create maps using a range ofoutput surfaces.

5. Demonstrate awareness of Open Source GIS Software, from a range of sources, specifying both the advantages and disadvantages of these resources.

This module introduces the concepts of environmental management and explores in detail the specific requirements of the Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) and ISO 14001 in relation to the planning and implementation of an Environmental Management System (EMS). The module also introduces the main requirements in relation to Planning Applications in Ireland and the issues that must be addressed in the preparation of an Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR).

1. Develop a methodology forcarrying out an Environmental Review of a facility and selecting appropriate Environmental Objectives and Targets.

2. Differentiate between the various components of an Environmental Management System.

3. Set out what is required in relation to the submission of a Planning Application andexplain how the Irish Planning System can assist in protecting the Environment.

4. Explain the requirements of the EPA Guidelines for the preparation of an Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR).

5. Carry out a Critical Review of an EIAR/Development Plan/Planning Report/Planning Permission.

Students undertake an individual project under staff supervision, completing a laboratory/field/desktop study during Semester 1, which is submitted towards the end of Semester 2. The principles and skills of environmental science are applied to conduct a comprehensive environmental investigation or to resolve an environmental problem. Part 1 covers all data collection, field and laboratory work associated with the research project and is assessed in conjunction with part 2 over the 2 semesters.

1. Managethe organisation of tasks and resources within a set timescale and with the minimum of supervision
2. Be self-directed in terms of time, motivation and planning and be self-aware, open and sensitive to others
3. Communicate a detailed knowledge of the methods used for acquiring, interpreting and analysing subject-specific information in an understandable formatwith a critical understanding of the appropriate contexts and limitations of their use.
4. Conduct appropriate documented scientific procedures and approved validation and/or quality assurance procedures to accurately gather, record and process scientific/technical information
5. Demonstrate an in-depth knowledge of the essential facts, major concepts, principles and theories associated with chosen area of research.
6. Demonstrate an ability to exercise independent judgement and to engage in scientific dialogue with peers and technical / professional parties
7. Employ appropriate data analysing, synthesising and summarising skills in a scientific work setting

Students are required to undertake a period of Work Placement in a relevant Company/Organisation at the end of 3rd Year and make a presentation to their peers and staff for examination. Students must also present a written report on their placement for evaluation. Guest speakers are invited to address the class on a regular basis on a range of current environmental topics.

1. Communicate scientific information in a variety of forms to specialist and non-specialist audiences.
2. Behave ethically in a range of work settings and recognise and respect the views of others

3. Contribute fully to the day-to-day operations of a scientific industry, or other scientific work setting.
4. Reflect on own work practices and Identify knowledge gaps and source and undertake self-learning to fill the gaps.

5. Develop a capacity for social responsibility.

The module allows the student an opportunity to concentrate on a specific research problem on environmental science and to apply concepts, theories and techniques to a relevant selected topic of interest. The project can be practical or theoretical. The aim is to round the educational experience by requiring the student to apply practical research skills to the process, as well as to engage in reflective and critical analysis of the data. It should communicate the advanced standard of knowledge in the environmental management field and normally deal with potential problems in, for example, the workplace, community, and voluntary sector.

1. Communicate a research report for a specific environmental science /management /resource management topic

2. Complete a programme of work requiring sustained effort with the objective of developing critical abilities in analysis, synthesis and evaluation

3. Demonstrate achievement of the objectives of the study and appropriateness of the methodology used

4. Collect, collate and analyse relevant data

5. Evaluate the main findings of the study and develop appropriate recommendations

6. Demonstrate an awareness of the relevance and potential of the study (for example to society, business and the environment)

7. Manage a personal learning process, demonstrate monitoring and revision procedures throughout the development of the project and recognise the information and resource requirements of the study

This module appraises the value of our geological, soil and hydrogeological resources with due consideration to related socioeconomic and environmental aspects. The importance of sustainable development, encompassing the application of satisfactory environmental management practices, is emphasised in order to protect non-renewable, natural resources. Major global land management challenges will be critically assessed through the application of case studies. The module focuses in particular on the sustainable development and management of water. A particular focus is also given on clean production methods, green procurement, life cycle assessment (LCA) and the financial appraisal of proposed environmental initiatives.

1. Critically review various aspects of current national and international developments in L ife Cycle Assessment (LCA), Eco-labelling and Cleaner Production (CP).

2. Critically review various aspects of current national and international developments in Green Public Procurement process.

3. Carry out a financial appraisal of proposed projects to determine whole life costs using discounted cash flow techniques.

4. Identify major threats to the groundwater resource and discuss management strategies for its protection.

5. Explainmajor threats to the soil resource and appraise key approachesfor itssustainablemanagement in agriculture.

This module addresses the treatment of mainly organic wastes arising from Agricultural, Municipal and Industrial activities and pollution of soils and subsurface. The module explores the science behind the treatment options available to operators in the industry, to minimise disposal of wastes, convert Organic Wastes by Anaerobic Digestion, Composting to biofuels and stable end products (Waste to resource) and remediate contaminated land and subsurface by Bioremediation.

1. The student should demonstrate a detailed knowledge of the concepts and principles associated with anaerobic digestion, composting, and remediation of contaminated lands and subsurfaces and using biotechnological innovation to produce valuable resources from organic wastes.
2. To source, interpret/appraise and criticise information from scientific papers and reports to support individual presentations in a variety of formats within the module area.
3. Demonstrate the capacity to bring together complex information relating to an appropriate topic covered by the module and present individually or in group/team work.
4. The student should show a detailed knowledge of the current knowledge and development of the subject areas including current limits of theoretical and applied knowledge.

This module explores the process of ecological management in order to manage ecosystem services and encourage sustainable use of natural resources. The management of a range of ecosystems and their constituent communities and populations will be explored from the environmental, policy and economic perspective. Key concepts and principles such as the ecosystem approach of the Convention on Biological Diversity, ecosystem services, adaptive management and management planning will be investigated. As part of this module students will investigate the role of ecological impact assessment and appropriate assessment in development proposals. Key policy and legislative measures designed to protect and restore ecosystems such as the Natura 2000 network, agri-environmental schemes and the EU Biodiversity Strategy will be appraised.

1. Describe the ecosystem approach to the management of land, water and living resources

2. Evaluate the role of adaptive management in the management of natural resources
3. Develop an ecological management programme for theprotection of a specific habitat or species of conservation concern
4. Critique the role of key EU and national policy and legislative measures to meet the objectives of the EU 2020 Biodiversity Strategy

This module explores salient energy issues globally and in Ireland. It investigates the options available to various stakeholders to generate/manage energy within the current policy and legislative framework.

1. Analyse, synthesise and communicate energy data and statistics in an EU and national context.
2. Explain the concepts of environmental building design in terms of energy efficient technologies.
3. Prepare evidence-based proposals as to why and how energy conservation initiatives may be applied in the domestic/commercial/industrial sector and discuss the potential environmental benefits of such proposals.
4. Evaluate current EU and national energy policy and legislation and discuss the implications of implementation for various stakeholders.
5. Analyse the design, operation and environmental impacts of various energy systems.